Turks and Caicos

Albeit its location in the Atlantic Ocean, Turks & Caicos is a part of the Caribbean countries, located southeast of The Bahamas. The archipelago consists of 40 islands, of which only 12 are inhabited by humans. Providenciales and Grand Turk are the major islands. Most travellers often miss out Turks & Caicos on their trip to the Caribbean, but those who visit this little paradise are greeted with postcard-perfect beaches, great diving and snorkelling and much more.

Provo (short for Providenciales) is the busiest island and hosts most of the tourist activities. Grace Bay is considered the best beach in the entire archipelago and in fact, is one of the most pristine beaches in the world. It seems like a never-ending stretch of white sand, and even though it is lined with countless resorts, you can easily find a private spot for yourself to lie down and soak up the sun. Near the beach lie the The Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef, which are top class snorkelling destinations. Another highlight of the island is the Chalk Sound National Park which contains a lovely lagoon with waters in an unbelievable turquoise shade. You can go kayaking or paddle boarding in this magical lagoon and click plenty of pictures.

The island of Grand Turk is where the capital of Turk and Caicos, Cockburn Town is located. Apart from some old buildings, museums and ruins, the town doesn’t offer anything grand to tourists. The island is also home to the Columbus Landfall National Park which marks the site of renowned explorer Christopher Colombus’ landing here in the 15th-century. However, the star attraction of the park and the island itself, is the 7000 ft sea fall teeming with marine life which is widely sought after by divers.

After the two main islands, Middle Caicos is the next best destination, known for the stunning Mudjin Harbour beach with its blue lagoon and perfect white sands. You can reach the beach by traversing the Crossing Place Trail, a coastal hiking path that passes through tiny villages, caves, beaches and breathtaking viewpoints. Another attraction of the island is the Conch Bar Caves, which is an underground cave system that extends over 24 sq km. Some of the caves have natural lagoons in them and were used as ritual sites by the native Lucayan tribes.

Every year thousands of humpback whales cross the narrow channel called ‘Columbus Passage’ between Grand Turk and Caicos island and head to their breeding grounds in the Dominican Republic. This annual migration is a sight to behold and can even be seen from the shores of Grand Turk. You can even snorkel or dive here and get a chance to encounter whales, dolphins, turtles, rays and other marine species.

Most of Turks and Caicos is surrounded by an extensive coral reef system, making it a great place for divers and snorkelers. Sailing, birdwatching and fishing or simply sunbathing and enjoying beach parties are other popular activities in these islands. With some of the world’s most stunning stretches of land and sea and an incredible marine life, the Turks and Caicos are an ideal tropical island destination.